Episode 04: Michael Burch

Episode 04: Michael Burch

Author: Discussion of knives, knifemaking, and knife collecting with makers Michael January 22, 2018 Duration: 2:34:48

Our third knifemaker panel introduction digs into the life and background of Michael Burch.  We learn about Michaels influences, what drives him to perfect his craft, and how his love for knives put him on a path to become a craftsman.


Imagine pulling up a chair in the corner of a bustling knife show, where the air hums with the shared passion for finely crafted steel. That's the feeling you get with Mark of the Maker. Hosted by Mark Stheiner, this podcast gathers renowned custom knifemakers like Tom Krein, Sean Kendrick, and Michael Burch for conversations that flow as easily as if they were just friends talking shop. The discussion goes far beyond simple tool reviews, diving into the entire culture and craft surrounding blades. You'll hear authentic perspectives from both the creators at the forge and the collectors who cherish their work, offering a full-circle view of this unique world. Each episode might explore the nuanced history behind tactical designs, current trends shaping the field, or candid commentary on the industry itself. They also tackle how modern influences, like social media, impact traditional craftsmanship. It’s a genuine and deep exploration for anyone fascinated by the art of knifemaking, the stories behind the tools, and the community that brings it all to life. Tune in for a podcast that captures the essence of the craft, straight from the voices that define it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 175

Mark of the Maker
Podcast Episodes
Episode 94: Fall Camping Picks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:16:41
The leaves are falling, the weather is turning cool and that means Fall is here! This time we take a swing at some picks for gear you might want to take on a fall hiking or camping trip, but with a twist. Fun one as alwa…
Episode 93: Mike Quesenberry [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:22:54
For episode 93, we get together with renowned ABS Mastersmith Mike Quesenberry for a chat. Mike has been the recipient of numerous awards, including this year's Best Damascus award at Blade Show and is featured in the Gr…
Episode 92: Nick Swan [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:09:08
Next up in our string of interviews is Nick Swan. Nick came into knives as a user and collector and eventually found his path to becoming a maker. We talk about his personal knifemaking journey, his influences, his mento…
Episode 91: Kirby Lambert [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:21:47
Here's a great interview with one of the nicest custom knifemakers in the game - our friend Kirby Lambert. For those not familiar, Kirby is a Canadian maker and makes some of the cleanest knives around. From growing up s…
Episode 90: Attack of the Mall Ninja [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:01:19
If you ever remember flipping through knife catalogs and seeing crazy stuff that made you shake your head for a sec (or secretly fell in love with), this fun picks episode is for you. We each pick a scenario and the gear…
Episode 89: Justin Black of Spycraft101 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:04:08
We've talked about the IG account @Spycraft101 many times on the show, and this time we are joined by its creator, Justin Black. Super interesting discussion, talking about crazy spy stuff from a new book Justin has out…
Minisode: PNWCI 2022 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:47
Mark talks with Michael and Sean about their recent experience at the new Pacific Northwest Custom Invitational show. This was a first attempt at a small regional show from our friends and recovering MotM guests Billy Ch…
Episode 88: Pat Pruitt Pt.2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:28:03
Here's the second half of our discussion with artist and metalsmith Pat Pruitt. In this second installment, we dig into collaborations, more on technology, and how COVID drove changes for many of us. Pat is a great inter…
Episode 87: Pat Pruitt Pt.1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:38:06
Artist and metalsmith Pat Pruitt joins us for a great chat about his work and how he found his path. Another example of a unique background and a journey that is unlike any of the others we've explored. We talk art, tech…
Episode 86: Tactical Picks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:09:35
We always enjoy the "picks" episodes and this one was no exception. As usual, we set up some scenarios and use them as an excuse to go find some cool blades and gear to talk about. We go new school, old school, funky sch…